WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives has passed Donalds bill H.R. 5103 – “The Bipartisan Fishery Improvement to Streamline untimely regulatory Hurdles post Emergency Situation Act (FISHES) Act,” by voice vote.

“The Bipartisan FISHES Act” is broadly-supported, bipartisan legislation to improve the federal regulatory process associated with the allocation of fishery disaster relief. Specifically, this commonsense and solutions-oriented bill seeks to expedite the distribution of federal disaster relief following official fishery disaster declarations–which the State of Florida has requested seven times since 2012.

H.R. 5103 is the twenty-sixth piece of legislation sponsored by Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) that has passed the U.S. House of Representatives during the 118th Congress. The legislation has received the support of 160 endorsing entities including 107 organizations, and fifty-two members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) is the sponsor of “The Bipartisan FISHES Act” Senate companion bill.

“Following Hurricane Ian, Southwest Florida’s seafood industry incurred catastrophic devastation and its impact still persists,” said Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL). “Waterways are the lifeblood of our economy and our community. It has always been my commitment to advocate for the vitality of water—which ultimately benefits countless families, businesses, and the overall development of the Sunshine State. I am proud to receive the broad, bipartisan support of my colleagues on this critical proposal and look forward to its successful passage on the floor of the United States Senate.”

“During a time of natural disaster, time can often be the difference between life and death,” said House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR). “For our nation’s fisheries, delays in disaster requests can cause catastrophic destruction to these vital resources and coastal communities. Today, we passed Congressman Donalds’ FISHES Act which will create timelines for disaster requests to ensure our fisheries can be supported when natural disasters strike. I’d like to thank Congressman Donalds for his leadership on this issue for all Americans.” 

Bill Support:

• 107 Supporting Organizations:
  • Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission;  Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission; Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission; American Sportfishing Association; Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies; Bonefish and Tarpon Trust; Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation; FL Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; National Audubon Society; Captains for Clean Water; American Conservation Coalition Action; Angler Action Foundation; Marine Industries Association of SWFL and Tampa Bay; Gulf Shellfish Institute; Florida Guides Association; National Association of Charterboat Operators; Southern Offshore Fishing Association; Coastal Conservation Association; Center for Sportfishing Policy; The Nature Conservancy; International Game and Fish Association; Reef Life Foundation; Resource Development Council for Alaska; National Fisheries Institute; Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association; BoatU.S.; Fish is America; Panama City Boatman’s Association; Association of Marina Industries; Southeastern Fisheries Association; North Carolina Fisheries Association; Louisiana Shrimp Association; Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Shareholders’ Alliance; Southern Shrimp Alliance; South Carolina Shrimpers Association; Diving Equipment and Marketing Association; Pontchartrain Conservancy; Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association; Everglades Trust; Marine Retailers Association of the Americas; Organized Fishermen of Florida; North Florida Marine Association; Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County; Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership; Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast; Charter Fishermans Association; Destin Charter Boat Association; Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council; Florida Stone Crab Association; Fishing Communities Coalition; Gulf Fisherman’s Association; Florida Commercial Watermen’s Conservation; Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber; Sanibel and Captiva Chamber of Commerce; United States Shrimpers Coalition; United Fishermen of Alaska; Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association; Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance; Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association; Marine Industries Association of Florida; Golden State Salmon Association; Georgia Commercial Fisherman Association; National Marine Manufacturers Association; Audubon Florida; Ocean Conservancy; Conservancy of SWFL; Cypress Chapter Izaak Walton League of America; Bergeron Everglades Foundation; Oceana; Texas Shrimp Association; North Carolina Watermen United; Blue Water Fishermen’s Association; Alabama Commercial Fisherman Association; Wildlife Forever; Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation; Florida Retail Federation; FL Shore & Beach Preservation Association; Florida Ocean Alliance; The Billfish Foundation; Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association; Michigan Boating Industries Association; East Farm Commercial Fisheries Center of Rhode Island; Maine Lobstermen’s Association; Mote Marine Laboratory; Cordova District Fishermen United; Midwater Trawlers Cooperative; National Marine Distributors Association; Restore America’s Estuaries; Seafood Harvesters of America; Purse Seine Vessel Owners Association; Mississippi Commercial Fisheries United; American Bird Conservancy; Pacific Seafood Processors Association; Alaska Bering Sea Crabbers; Virginia Watermans Association; New England Young Fishermen’s Alliance; New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association; Port Arthur Area Shrimpers’ Association; National Restaurant Association; Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.); Major League Fishing; American Shrimp Processers Association; Guy Harvey Foundation; Pacific Northwest Waterways Association; Oregon Trawl Commission; Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association; and North American Marine Alliance

• 48 Bipartisan House Cosponsors:

  • Representatives Mary Peltola (D-AK), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Troy Carter (D-LA), Troy Nehls (R-TX), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), James Moylan (R-GU), Stacey Plaskett (D-VI), John Rutherford (R-FL), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Auma Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-AS), Brian Mast (R-FL), Clay Higgins (R-LA), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Glenn Grothmann (R-WI), Anthony D’Esposito (R-NY), Nick LaLota (R-NY), Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon (R-PR), Randy Weber (R-TX), Nancy Mace (R-SC), Don Davis (D-NC), Russell Fry (R-SC), Jerry Carl (R-AL), Michael Waltz (R-FL), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Greg Steube (R-FL), Josh Harder (D-CA), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Tom Kean Jr. (R-NJ), Jim Costa (D-CA), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Dean Phillips (D-MN), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Lois Frankel (D-FL), David Rouzer (R-NC), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), and Timothy Kennedy (D-NY) 

• 4 Senate Supporters:
  • Senate-lead Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL); Senators Lisa Murkowski (R- AK), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Dan Sullivan (R-AK)

More:

• See full text of the Donalds FISHES Act HERE.
• See Congress.gov bill profile of the Donalds FISHES Act HERE.
• See Congress.gov bill profile of the Scott Senate companion HERE.
• See Donalds-Scott Joint Op-Ed in Support of FISHES Act HERE.
• See bill summary graphics of the Donalds FISHES Act below:

TALLAHASSEE – Today, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) shared a statement from its President & CEO, Carol Dover, on the passing of Central Florida hotelier Harris Rosen, whose lifetime of dedication to Florida’s hospitality industry has had significant impacts in Central Florida and across the state.

Statement from Carol Dover:

“Today, Florida’s hospitality industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic leaders, our dear friend Harris Rosen. FRLA’s longtime board member and our 2009 Hotelier of the Year, Harris transformed Central Florida’s hospitality landscape through his visionary leadership and unyielding commitment to excellence. He set the standard for innovation and guest service, turning his dream into an empire that became a cornerstone of Orlando’s tourism industry. His remarkable career is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our industry. Beyond his business acumen, Harris was a philanthropist at heart. His unwavering dedication to improving lives – from investing in education initiatives like the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management – to generously supporting health care and disaster relief efforts – exemplified the profound impact one individual can have on a community. Harris Rosen’s legacy will endure not only through the hotels that bear his name, but also through the countless lives he touched. On behalf of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege to know him. His contributions to Florida’s hospitality industry and his philanthropic spirit will never be forgotten, and we are so grateful to him for his lifetime of leadership and generosity.”

About FRLA: The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. FRLA’s more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, household name franchises, theme parks and suppliers. The association’s mission is to protect, educate and promote Florida’s nearly $112 billion hospitality industry which represents nearly two million employees. Dedicated to safeguarding the needs of the membership, FRLA provides legislative advocacy to ensure the voices of its members are heard and their interests are protected. The association offers regulatory compliance and food safety training through Safe Staff® and FRLA’s subsidiary, RCS Training. The FRLA Educational Foundation provides industry-developed, career-building high school programs throughout the state.

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Ocala, FL– Rock The Country, the two-day event – A Festival For We The People – will be returning to Ocala, FL on May 9-10, 2025, as the major country festival makes its official road trip across the country. Stopping in 10 cities along the way, Ocala will mark the fourth stop of the summer. 2025 is going to be a year that will go down in history, as Rock The Country will be bringing the best of both worlds together in uniting the country legend, Kid Rock, and the ultimate rockstars, Nickelback. With the country and rock genres joining forces, Rock The Country will truly be rocking the country all summer long.

Headlining ALL ten Rock The Country festivals are none other than rock legends themselves—Nickelback, the chart-topping superstars, and Kid Rock, the one and only original American bad ass. Lineups will vary by market. The lineup for Ocala will feature powerhouse artists including: Hank Williams Jr., the legendary Tracey Lawrence, one of the hottest up and comers in country music, Gavin Adock, Jo Dee Messina, Diamond Rio, Mark Chesnutt, Sammy Kershaw, Little Texas, Hudson Westbrook, Logan Crosby, Afroman, Ying Yang Twins and Dee Jay Silver.

Rock The Country saw an incredible turn out in 2024 in Ocala. With attracting over 30,000 fans – almost 25,000 were visitors from outside Marion County. Overall, Rock the Country generated
$17.7 million in new Marion County output and $5.2 million in new earnings for Marion County workers. Rock The Country is excited to bring the event back to Ocala, and make an even bigger
impact to Marion County in 2025.

“We are thrilled to be welcoming back Rock the Country to Ocala/Marion County in 2025,” said Marion County Commissioner Carl Zalak, III. “Having an event of this magnitude in our
community is not only exciting for locals, but also brings more visitors to the area, putting our county on the map for hosting impressive entertainment.”
“It’s this simple, Rock The Country isn’t just a music festival, it’s a movement,” said Kid Rock. “It’s a place for hard working, God-fearing patriots to gather as one and celebrate freedom,
music and the party of the year.”

“We’re really looking forward to hitting the road and visiting some amazing towns, especially in places we’ve never played before. There’s something special about connecting with fans in these
communities, and we’re ready to bring our best and truly rock the country. Can’t wait to see you all out there!” said Michael Kroeger of Nickelback.

Rock The Country kicks off in April of 2025. The ten locations and dates of Rock The Country are the following:
● Livingston, LA – April 4 & 5 at Livingston Fairgrounds
● Knoxville, TN – April 25 & 26 at Greenback’s Maple Lane Farms
● Poplar Bluff, MO – May 2 & 3 at Brick’s Off Road Park
● Ocala, FL – May 9 & 10 at Florida Horse Park
● York, PA – May 30 & 31 at York Expo Center
● Hastings, MI – June 13 & 14 at Barry Expo Center
● Little Rock, AR – June 20 & 21 at Arkansas State Fairgrounds
● Ashland, KY – July 11 & 12 at Boyd County Fairgrounds
● Sioux Falls, SD – July 18 & 19 at WH Lyon Fairgrounds
● Anderson, SC – July 25 & 26 at Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center

Public ticket sale begins Friday, November 15, 2024, at 10:00am CST. Along with GA, VIP and Elevated Reserved Seating, there will be RV and Car camping available at each venue. Hotel packages are also available this year. All tickets can be purchased at rockthecountry.com.

BUY TICKETS HERE

“We’re thrilled to see Rock The Country grow into events that unite small-town America and celebrate the values that make our communities strong,” said Shane Quick, Senior Promoter & Partner of Peachtree Entertainment. “These festivals not only bring people together for incredible music and unforgettable experiences, but they also drive significant economic impact for local businesses, underscoring our commitment to supporting these hometowns in 2025,” added Nathan Baugh, CEO & Partner of Peachtree Entertainment.

In addition to announcing the lineup, Rock The Country has officially launched the 2025 Hometown Hero campaign where local residents can nominate someone that goes above and
beyond in serving their community every day. The winner of the Rock The Country 2025 Hometown Hero in each market will receive the ultimate VIP experience at their local show,
including a backstage tour and the opportunity to lead the Pledge of Allegiance on stage. For more information and to nominate a Hometown Hero, please go to: RTC Hometown Hero.
Rock The Country has teamed up with Folds of Honor, a leading non-profit organization that provides educational scholarships to the children and spouses of America’s fallen or disabled
military service members and first responders. Rock The Country is on a mission to help support our local veterans, and make a difference. Join Rock The Country and Folds of Honor in making
your contribution when you purchase your tickets. All donations will go towards local organizations in Ocala as well as organizations such as Folds of Honor in support of our
veterans.

For more information about Rock The Country, including the full lineup and ticket details, visit www.rockthecountry.com.

ABOUT PEACHTREE ENTERTAINMENT:
Peachtree Entertainment is a nationally acclaimed concert promoter committed to spotlighting rising talent. With over 15 years of expertise in the music industry, Peachtree Entertainment has earned its reputation as a leader and innovator in live music. As pioneers in identifying and nurturing new talent, Peachtree Entertainment has played a key role in launching the touring careers of artists like Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Luke Bryan, Gavin Adcock, and many more. Beyond tours, Peachtree’s outdoor event portfolio features iconic gatherings such as Rock The South, Rock The Country, Live At The Station, Bulls Bands and Barrels, among many others. Peachtree Entertainment is a joint venture with LiveCo, a leading private equity-backed entertainment
company producing over 3,000 live shows annually across multiple genres. Together, they contribute to shaping the live entertainment landscape, delivering unforgettable experiences nationwide and internationally. Peachtree Entertainment remains dedicated to shaping the national country music scene, continuing its legacy of significant influence and success. 

PUBLICITY CONTACTS
Cassie Zebisch-Schienle | [email protected]
Holly Lollar | [email protected]
MARKETING CONTACTS
Holly Doscher | [email protected]
Andrew Chatwood | [email protected]
LOCAL PARTNERSHIP CONTACTS
Cait Belber | [email protected]
SPONSORSHIP CONTACTS
Makenzie Krigbaum | [email protected]

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- FEMA has activated Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for Floridians displaced by Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton in 52 counties and for tribal members of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians.

Residents in these counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA. Applicants do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

Applicants may be eligible if they cannot return to their disaster-damaged home and their housing needs cannot be met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency.

Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Pet fees will only be paid up to the approved limit of assistance for individual rooms. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, restaurant/room service, parking, telephone or movie rental. 

Continued eligibility is determined on an individual basis. When eligibility ends, survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to checkout date.

TSA is limited to participating hotels and motels in Florida, Alabama and Georgia. Applicants must refer to the TSA Locator to find a hotel, which will be visible to them when they go to DisasterAssistance.gov.  

TSA participants may also be eligible for other FEMA financial help, including Displacement Assistance, Rental Assistance, Home Repair Assistance and other aspects of the Individual Assistance program.

Floridians can apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply using the FEMA mobile App or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand calls to FEMA’s helpline are experiencing delays because of the increased volume due to multiple recent disasters. The fastest way to apply is online or through the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube. 

For the latest information about Florida’s Hurricane Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834.Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

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~FRLA continues to urge all hotels to reduce or waive no-pet policies they may have in place to support evacuating families ~

Those doing so are encouraged to complete DBPR’s Lodging Pet Fee Waiver Info Sheet below

DBPR’s Lodging Pet Fee Waiver Information Sheet

CLICK HERE to view a list of those self-reporting their participation 

Today, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order (EO) 24-214, Emergency Management – Tropical Storm Milton, declaring a state of emergency in 35 Florida counties ahead of the storm, including Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, and Volusia counties.

For your reporting purposes, please note in particular the following:

• Language in the opening portion of Section 2, which prohibits the suspension of or limitation of the sale, dispensation, or transportation of firearms.
• Section 2, subsection H, which directs all state, regional, and local governmental agencies, including law enforcement agencies, to allow Floridians to return to their properties when it is reasonably safe to do so after the storm.
• Section 13, which orders all Disaster Debris Management Sites and landfills in all counties impacted by Hurricane Helene to remain open and allow twenty-four hour debris drop off. This is part of the State of Florida’s effort to ensure as much debris from Helene is cleaned up and disposed of ahead of the coming storm.

To read the full executive order, click here or read below:

STATE OF FLORIDA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 24-214
(Emergency Management – Tropical Storm Milton)

     WHEREAS, on October 5, 2024, showers and thunderstorms associated with an area of low pressure located over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico have gradually become better organized, and the storm is now identified as Tropical Storm Milton; and
     WHEREAS, atmospheric and oceanic conditions are anticipated to support rapid intensification over the Gulf of Mexico, and Tropical Storm Milton is forecast to become a hurricane by early Monday; and
     WHEREAS, this system could become a major hurricane near or at landfall along the West Florida Coast by the middle of next week; and
     WHEREAS, there is an increasing risk of life-threatening storm surge and wind impacts for portions of the western Florida Peninsula beginning as soon as later Tuesday and Wednesday; and
     WHEREAS, areas of heavy rainfall will impact portions of Florida well ahead of the tropical system, impacting Florida Gulf Coast communities still recovering from recent Major Hurricane Helene; and
     WHEREAS, current computer modeling shows rainfall predictions of four to eight inches across the Florida Peninsula, with locally higher amounts in excess of eight to twelve inches possible; and
     WHEREAS, much of Florida has recorded above normal rainfall over the past thirty days; North Florida has experienced rainfall totals of six to twelve inches above normal, with portions of the eastern Florida Panhandle measuring fifteen to twenty inches above normal for this time of year; and
     WHEREAS, this level of soil saturation will likely lead to a more rapid onset to flash, urban, and riverine flooding through next week; and
      WHEREAS, heavy rainfall, flooding, and gusty winds will cause power outages due to downed trees and powerlines due to the already vulnerable state of Florida’s vegetation and coastal infrastructure; and
     WHEREAS, the consequences of these impacts could damage the operational capability of critical infrastructure including major interstates and roadways, bridges, airports, schools, hospitals, power grids, in addition to prolonging recovery efforts from Major Hurricane Helene; and
      WHEREAS, as Governor of Florida, I am responsible to meet the dangers presented to the State of Florida and its people by this emergency.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RON DESANTIS, as Governor of Florida, by virtue of the authority vested in me by Article IV, Section 1(a) of the Florida Constitution and by the Florida Emergency Management Act, as amended, and all other applicable laws, promulgate the following Executive Order, to take immediate effect:
Section 1.  Because of the foregoing conditions, which are projected to constitute a major disaster, I declare that a state of emergency exists in Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, and Volusia counties.

Section 2. I designate the Executive Director of the Division of Emergency Management (“Director”) as the State Coordinating Officer for the duration of this emergency and direct him to execute the State’s Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and other response, recovery, and mitigation plans necessary to cope with the emergency, including any logistical, rescue or evacuation operations.  Pursuant to section 252.36(1)(a), Florida Statutes, I delegate to the State Coordinating Officer the authority to exercise those powers delineated in sections 252.36(6)-(12), Florida Statutes, which he shall exercise as needed to meet this emergency, subject to the limitations of section 252.33, Florida Statutes.  In exercising the powers delegated by this Executive Order, the State Coordinating Officer shall confer with the Governor to the fullest extent practicable.  It is further ordered that the requirements of sections 943.13 and 943.131, Florida Statutes, as they may be applicable to the State Coordinating Officer, shall be waived for the duration of this emergency.  The State Coordinating Officer shall not have the authority to suspend or limit the sale, dispensing, or transportation of firearms pursuant to section 252.36(6)(h), Florida Statutes.  The State Coordinating Officer shall also have the authority to:
A. Invoke and administer the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (“EMAC”) (sections 252.921-252.9335, Florida Statutes) and other compacts and agreements existing between the State of Florida and other states, and the further authority to coordinate the allocation of resources from such other states that are made available to Florida under such compacts and agreements so as to best meet this emergency.
B. Seek direct assistance and enter into agreements with any and all agencies of the federal government as may be needed to meet this emergency.
C. Direct all state, regional, and local governmental agencies, including law enforcement agencies, to identify personnel needed from those agencies to assist in meeting the response, recovery, and mitigation needs created by this emergency, and to place all such personnel under the direct command and coordination of the State Coordinating Officer to meet this emergency.
D. Direct the actions of any state agency as necessary to implement the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Disaster Recovery Framework.
E. Designate Deputy State Coordinating Officers and Deputy State Disaster Recovery Coordinators, as necessary.
F. Suspend the effect of any statute, rule, or order that would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay any mitigation, response, or recovery action necessary to cope with this emergency.  In accordance with section 252.3611(1), Florida Statutes, any such order, declaration, or other action shall specify each statute or rule being amended or waived, if applicable, and the expiration date for the order or action.
G. Enter orders as may be needed to implement any of the foregoing powers; however, the requirements of sections 252.46 and 120.54(4), Florida Statutes, do not apply to any such orders issued by the State Coordinating Officer.  No such order shall remain in effect beyond the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.
H. Direct all state, regional, and local governmental agencies, including law enforcement agencies, to allow Floridians to return to their properties when it is reasonably safe to do so.

Section 3.  I order the Adjutant General to activate the Florida National Guard, as needed, to deal with this emergency.  I further order the Director of the Florida State Guard to activate the Florida State Guard, as needed, to respond to this emergency.

Section 4. I find that the special duties and responsibilities resting upon some state, regional, and local agencies and other governmental bodies in responding to this emergency may require them to suspend or waive certain statutes, rules, ordinances, and orders they administer.  Therefore, I issue the following authorizations:
A. Pursuant to section 252.36(6)(a), Florida Statutes, the Executive Office of the Governor may suspend all statutes and rules affecting budgeting to the extent necessary to provide budget authority for state agencies to cope with this emergency.  The requirements of sections 252.46 and 120.54(4), Florida Statutes, do not apply to any such suspension issued by the Executive Office of the Governor.  No such suspension shall remain in effect beyond the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.
B. Each state agency may suspend the provisions of any regulatory statute prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business or the orders or rules of that agency, if strict compliance with the provisions of any such statute, order, or rule would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in coping with the emergency.  This includes, but is not limited to, the authority to suspend any and all statutes, rules, ordinances, or orders which affect leasing, printing, purchasing, travel, and the condition of employment and the compensation of employees.  In accordance with section 252.3611(1), Florida Statutes, any agency order, declaration, or other action suspending a statute or rule shall specify each statute or rule being amended or waived, if applicable, and the expiration date for the order or action.  The requirements of sections 252.46 and 120.54(4), Florida Statutes, shall not apply to any such suspension issued by a state agency.  No such suspension shall remain in effect beyond the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.
C. In accordance with section 252.38(3), Florida Statutes, each political subdivision within the State of Florida may waive the procedures and formalities otherwise required of the political subdivision by law pertaining to:
1) Performance of public work and taking whatever prudent action is necessary to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the community;
2) Following local procurement and contracting policies;
3) Entering into contracts; however, political subdivisions are cautioned against entering into time and materials contracts without a ceiling as defined by 2 CFR 200.318(j) or cost plus a percentage of cost contracts prohibited by 2 CFR 200.324(d);
4) Incurring obligations;
5) Employment of permanent and temporary workers;
6) Utilization of volunteer workers;
7) Rental of equipment;
8) Acquisition and distribution, with or without compensation, of supplies, materials, and facilities; and
9) Appropriation and expenditure of public funds.
D. All agencies whose employees are certified as disaster service volunteers within the meaning of section 110.120(2)(d), Florida Statutes, may, in accordance with section 110.120(3), Florida Statutes, release any such employees for such service as requested by the employee to meet this emergency.
E. The Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) may:
1) Waive the collection of tolls and other fees and charges for the use of the Turnpike and other public highways, to the extent such waiver may be needed to provide emergency assistance or facilitate the evacuation of the affected counties;
2) Manage the flow of traffic or close any and all roads, highways, and portions of highways as may be needed for the safe and efficient transportation of evacuees to those counties that the State Coordinating Officer may designate as destination counties for evacuees in this emergency;
3) Suspend enforcement of the registration requirements pursuant to section 316.545(4), Florida Statutes, for commercial motor vehicles that enter Florida to provide emergency services or supplies, to transport emergency equipment, supplies or personnel, or to transport FEMA mobile homes or office style mobile homes into or from Florida;
4) Waive by special permit the warning signal requirements in the Utility Accommodations Manual to accommodate public utility companies from other jurisdictions which render assistance in restoring vital services; and
5) Waive the size and weight restrictions for divisible loads on any vehicles transporting emergency equipment, services, supplies, and agricultural commodities and citrus as recommended by the Commissioner of Agriculture, allowing the establishment of alternate size and weight restrictions for all such vehicles for the duration of the emergency.  The DOT shall issue permits and such vehicles shall be subject to such special conditions as the DOT may endorse on any such permits.

Nothing in this Executive Order shall be construed to allow any vehicle to exceed weight limits posted for bridges and like structures, or relieve any vehicle or the carrier, owner, or driver of any vehicle from compliance with any restrictions other than those specified in this Executive Order, or from any statute, rule, order, or other legal requirement not specifically waived or suspended herein or by supplemental order by the State Coordinating Officer.
F. The Executive Director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) may:
1) Suspend enforcement of the registration requirements pursuant to sections 316.545(4) and 320.0715, Florida Statutes, for commercial motor vehicles that enter Florida to provide emergency services or supplies, to transport emergency equipment, supplies or personnel, or to transport FEMA mobile homes or office style mobile homes into or from Florida;
2) Waive the hours-of-service requirements for such vehicles;
3) Suspend the enforcement of the licensing and registration requirements under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) pursuant to chapter 207, Florida Statutes, and the International Registration Plan (IRP) pursuant to section 320.0715, Florida Statutes, for motor carriers or drivers operating commercial motor vehicles that are properly registered in other jurisdictions and that are participating in emergency relief efforts through the transportation of equipment and supplies or providing other assistance in the form of emergency services;
4) Waive fees for duplicate or replacement vessel registration certificates, vessel title certificates, vehicle license plates, vehicle registration certificates, vehicle tag certificates, vehicle title certificates, handicapped parking permits, replacement drivers’ licenses, and replacement identification cards and to waive the additional fees for the late renewal of or application for such licenses, certificates, and documents due to the effects of adverse weather conditions; and
5) Defer administrative actions and waive fees imposed by law for the late renewal or application for the above licenses, certificates, and documents, which were delayed due to the effects of adverse weather conditions, including in counties wherein the DHSMV has closed offices, or any office of the County Tax Collector that acts on behalf of the DHSMV to process renewals has closed offices due to adverse weather conditions.  Recordkeeping and other applicable requirements for existing IFTA and IRP licensees and registrants are not affected by this Executive Order.  The DHSMV shall promptly notify the State Coordinating Officer when the waiver is no longer necessary.
G. In accordance with section 465.0275(2), Florida Statutes, pharmacists may dispense up to a 30-day emergency prescription refill of maintenance medication to persons who reside in an area or county covered under this Executive Order and to emergency personnel who have been activated by their state or local agency but who do not reside in an area or county covered by this Executive Order.  In accordance with section 465.019(4)(b), Florida Statutes, a hospital that operates a Class II or Class III institutional pharmacy located in an area or county covered under this Executive Order may prescribe and dispense a supply of medicinal drug lasting up to 72 hours.
H. All state agencies responsible for the use of state buildings and facilities may close such buildings and facilities in those portions of the State affected by this emergency, to the extent necessary to meet this emergency.  I direct each state agency to report the closure of any State building or facility to the WebEOC system utilized by the Division of Emergency Management.  Under the authority contained in section 252.36, Florida Statutes, I direct each county to report the closure of any building or facility operated or maintained by the county or any political subdivision on a daily basis to the WebEOC system.  Furthermore, I direct the Secretary of the Department of Management Services to:
1) Maintain an accurate and up-to-date list of all such closures; and
2) Provide that list daily to the State Coordinating Officer.
I. All State agencies may abrogate the time requirements, notice requirements, and deadlines for final action on applications for permits, licenses, rates, and other approvals under any statutes or rules under which such application are deemed to be approved unless disapproved in writing by specified deadlines.  All such time requirements that have not yet expired as of the date of this Executive Order are suspended and tolled to the extent necessary to meet this emergency.
J. All agencies shall implement Selected Exempt Services (SES) Extraordinary Payment Plans and Career Service Regular Compensatory Leave Payment Plans for:
1) All essential agency personnel who are required to work extraordinary hours when state-owned or state-operated facilities are closed in response to an emergency condition.  Employees who are eligible to receive extraordinary pay under the agency’s activated plan shall accrue special compensatory leave credits for work performed during facility closures up to the number of hours in the employee’s established workday.  For these employees, any additional time worked beyond the employee’s established workday during facility closures will result in extraordinary pay;
2) All agency personnel who are assigned to the State Emergency Operations Center and are required to work extraordinary hours; and
3) All agency personnel who are deployed throughout the state in response to an emergency condition and are required to work extraordinary hours.
K. All State agencies may waive the forty-day time limit to issue a warrant pursuant to section 215.422(3)(b), Florida Statutes.  This waiver applies to invoices and reimbursement requests arising from this emergency that were received, inspected, and approved by the agency prior to the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.  This waiver of section 215.422(3)(b), Florida Statutes, and all waivers based upon this waiver shall expire upon the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.
L. The provisions of section 934.50, Florida Statutes, excluding subsection (4), are waived for state and local agencies conducting emergency operations arising from the state of emergency for the limited purpose of capturing aerial evidence concerning the amount of damage sustained to private and public property; to assist in search, rescue, and recovery activities; and prevent imminent danger to life or serious damage to property.

Section 5.  All public facilities, including elementary and secondary schools, community colleges, state universities, and other facilities owned or leased by the state, regional or local governments that are suitable for use as public shelters shall be made available at the request of the local emergency management agencies to ensure the proper reception and care of all evacuees.  Under the authority contained in section 252.36, Florida Statutes, I direct the Superintendent of each public-school district in the State of Florida to report the closure of any school within its district to the Commissioner of the Florida Department of Education.  Furthermore, I direct the Commissioner of the Department of Education to:
A. Maintain an accurate and up-to-date list of all such closures; and
B. Provide that list daily to the State Coordinating Officer.

  Section 6. I find that the demands placed upon funds specifically appropriated to state and local agencies for disaster relief or response are unreasonably great and that such funds may be inadequate to pay the costs of coping with this emergency.  In accordance with section 252.37(2), Florida Statutes, I direct that sufficient funds be made available, as needed, by transferring and expending moneys from the Emergency Preparedness and Response Fund.

Section 7.   All state agencies entering emergency orders, emergency rules, or other emergency actions in response to this emergency shall advise the State Coordinating Officer contemporaneously or as soon as practicable thereafter, and, pursuant to section 252.36(3)(b), Florida Statutes, shall submit the order or declaration to the Division of Administrative Hearings within five (5) days of issuance.
       

  Section 8. Medical professionals and workers, social workers, and counselors with good and valid professional licenses issued by states other than the State of Florida may render such services in Florida during this emergency for persons affected by this emergency with the condition that such services be rendered to such persons free of charge, and with the further condition that such services be rendered under the auspices of the American Red Cross or the Florida Department of Health.

Section 9. Pursuant to section 501.160, Florida Statutes, it is unlawful and a violation of section 501.204, Florida Statutes, for a person to rent or sell or offer to rent or sell at an unconscionable price within the area for which the state of emergency is declared, any essential commodity including, but not limited to, supplies, services, provisions, or equipment that is necessary for consumption or use as a direct result of the emergency.

Section 10. Under the authority contained in sections 252.36(6)(a), (g), and (m), Florida Statutes, I direct that, for the purposes of this emergency, the term “essentials”, as defined by section 252.359(2), Florida Statutes, shall be the same as and no more expansive than the term “commodity”, as defined by section 501.160(1)(a), Florida Statutes (hereinafter referred to collectively or alternatively as “essential commodities”).  Accordingly, any person who delivers essential commodities to a location in the area(s) declared to be under a state of emergency by this Executive Order, and when necessary to ensure that those commodities are made available to the public, may travel within evacuated areas and exceed curfews, provided the State Coordinating Officer determines, after consultation with the appropriate Emergency Support Function(s), that:
A. Law enforcement officials in the declared area(s) can provide adequate security to protect the essential commodities from theft;
B. The weight of a delivery vehicle will not jeopardize the structural integrity of any roadway or bridge located within the declared area;
C. Delivery vehicles will not negatively impact evacuation activities in the declared area(s); and
D. Delivery vehicles will not negatively impact any response or recovery activities occurring within the declared area(s).
After consulting with the appropriate Emergency Support Function(s), and after consulting with local officials, the State Coordinating Officer may dictate the routes of ingress, egress, and movement within the declared area(s) that drivers must follow when delivering essential commodities.
Provided he or she is actually delivering medications, any person authorized to deliver medications under chapter 893, Florida Statutes, qualifies as a person delivering essential commodities.
In order to qualify as a person delivering essential commodities under this section, a person must be in the process of delivering essential commodities only.  If an individual is transporting both essential and non-essential commodities, then this section shall not provide any authorization for that individual to enter into or move within the declared area(s).

Section 11.  Consistent with Executive Order 80-29, nothing in this Executive Order shall prevent local jurisdictions in any area not declared to be under a state of emergency by this Executive Order from taking prompt and necessary action to save lives and protect the property of their citizens, including the authority to compel and direct timely evacuation when necessary.

Section 12. I authorize the Florida Housing Finance Corporation to distribute funds pursuant to section 420.9073, Florida Statutes, to any county, municipality, or other political subdivision located within the area(s) declared to be under a state of emergency by this Executive Order.  The authority of the Florida Housing Finance Corporation to distribute funds in connection with this emergency shall expire six months after the expiration of this Executive Order, including any extension thereof.

Section 13.  Pursuant to sections 252.36(6)(b) and 252.35(2)(z), Florida Statutes, it is further ordered that all Disaster Debris Management Sites and landfills in all counties impacted by Hurricane Helene shall remain open and allow twenty-four-hour debris drop off.

Section 14. All actions taken by the Director of the Division of Emergency Management with respect to this emergency before the issuance of this Executive Order are ratified.

          Section 15.  This Executive Order is effective immediately and shall expire sixty (60) days from this date unless extended.

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FLORIDA DBPR ISSUES EMERGENCY ORDER 2024-08 TO STREAMLINE HURRICANE HELENE RECOVERY EFFORTS